Adventure Collective
Old Dubai Walking Tour with Wander with Nada - Dubai

Old Dubai Walking Tour with Wander with Nada

دبيeasy

Difficulty

easy

Duration

4 hours

Fitness Level

Suitable for casual walkers with basic fitness; extensive walking on flat terrain.

Overview

Walk through Dubai’s historic quarters with Wander with Nada’s Old Dubai Walking Tour. Discover vibrant souqs, ride a traditional abra, and finish with a shared Emirati meal in this immersive 4-hour experience.

Dubai, Dubai

Old Dubai Walking Tour - Shared

Journey through time on the Old Dubai cultural tour • 4 hours • from 7yrs old

Select participants and date

About This Adventure

Embark on a captivating 4-hour walking tour through Old Dubai, where history comes alive. Discover the vibrant souqs, hop on a traditional abra boat, and explore the charming Al Fahidi neighborhood. Enjoy the warmth of Emirati hospitality with a delicious shared meal, making this journey a unique blend of culture and cuisine.

Duration: 4 hours

Take a walking tour with me in Old Dubai where the caravan camels once roamed.

Highlights

Dubai’s historic and humble beginnings tell a story like no other. We’ll start the day by marching (not literally, just light walking involved) the streets of old Dubai stopping by several enchanting sights and witnessing the city’s dynamic history woven by its people. My goal is to take you through a journey of tales and show you just how the small Arab village became a top destination throughout the sands of time.

We'll learn about the emirate’s history and people as we wander its streets and the aromatic spice and shiny gold souqs (markets). We’ll meet shop owners and learn the secrets behind some of the world’s most expensive traded items. We'll hop on a traditional wooden abra boat (think Arabian gondola minus the singing) and cross over the magnificent Dubai Creek. We’ll explore the historic Al Fahidi neighborhood with its merchant houses and their incredible windtowers, and enjoy gahwa or Arabic coffee, a quintessential symbol of Emirati hospitality. By then, I guarantee our stomachs will be grumbling loud enough to guide us themselves to one of Dubai’s best eats where we will break bread together over a delicious meal.

Inclusions

  • The tour includes a lunch meal as the grand finale which is pre-ordered, non-vegetarian, and served on a sharing basis.

  • Vegetarian options are minimal but are available so please do ensure to select the correct one when booking. Tour members with dietary restrictions can include this information at the check out or must contact us in advance to the tour to see if they can be accommodated. Anything additional will be covered at your own cost e.g. soft drinks, additional food.

Exclusions

  • A visit to the Dubai Museum or the Al Shindagha Museum, unless otherwise notified. Guests who wish to explore them can do so at their own leisure. Update: Please note that the Dubai Museum is currently undergoing restoration and is closed until further notice.

Important to bring for the tour

  • Change (20 and 10 DHS bills) if you wish to buy any souvenirs.
  • Charged cameras.
  • Sunglasses, hat, sunscreen, comfy flat shoes, and light fabric clothing during summer (recommended not to wear jeans).
  • Bottled water to keep hydrated and an appetite for our meal!

Meeting point

  • The meeting point is at the Al-Shindagha Museum Drop-off point. Google Maps link here. You will receive more info in the confirmation email.

Adventure Tips

Wear comfortable footwear

Expect varied surfaces including paved alleys and market pathways – flat, breathable shoes are best.

Stay hydrated

Dubai’s arid climate can be drying; carry water, especially when walking during warmer months.

Bring small bills for shopping

Souqs often require exact change for purchases of spices, textiles, and souvenirs.

Respect local customs

Dress modestly and be mindful when photographing people or religious sites.

Local Insights

Wildlife

  • Feral pigeons commonly found around Dubai Creek
  • Occasional migratory birds resting along water edges

History

Old Dubai once thrived as a small fishing and pearl-diving village before growing into a global trading hub thanks to Dubai Creek.

Conservation

Preserving old buildings through restoration projects helps maintain Old Dubai’s cultural fabric amid rapid urban growth.

Select participants and date

Adventure Hotspots in Dubai

Frequently Asked Questions

Recommended Gear

Comfortable walking shoes

Essential

Supportive and breathable shoes will keep you comfortable on varied walking surfaces.

Sunhat or cap

Essential

Protects against strong sun exposure during summer months.

summer specific

Sunscreen

Essential

Essential for skin protection while spending hours outdoors.

spring|summer|fall specific

Reusable water bottle

Essential

Staying hydrated is critical in Dubai’s dry climate throughout the year.

all specific